Senior Research Scientist I

BioSpace; Oxford (AL); On-site; USD 79,000 - 119,000; Full time

Job summary

Immunocore is seeking a Senior Research Scientist I to design and conduct cell-based assays supporting identification and early preclinical development of T cell engager molecules in its preclinical pipeline at Oxford. The role emphasizes independent execution of biology experiments and contribution to knowledge packages for go/no-go decisions.

You will develop or propose novel assays and maintain rigorous records while collaborating with cross-functional teams to advance IND/CTA-enabling

Qualifications

• PhD in a scientific discipline or MSc/BSc with equivalent research/industrial experience.
• Strong knowledge of immunology and cell biology.
• Experience with immunoassay techniques (flow cytometry, ELISA, etc.).

Responsibilities

• Design and perform cell biology experiments to support ImmTAX screening through candidate nomination and preclinical packages.
• Contribute to internal cross-functional project teams and communicate data to inform go/no-go decisions.
• Collaborate to build knowledge around targets and technologies of strategic interest to Immunocore.
• Introduce new techniques to answer project questions and improve processes with team support.
• Maintain records and write up experiments in lab notebooks per company procedures.
• Support EHS policies and ensure equipment is used according to SOPs and safety guidelines.

Skills

Immunology

Cell biology

Immunoassay techniques

Flow cytometry

ELISA

Scientific communication

Team collaboration

Education

PhD in a scientific discipline

MSc or BSc with role-specific equivalent experience

Tools

CRISPR/Cas9

Incucyte

xCELLigence

MSD platforms

PCR

Cell culture

Job description

Vacancy Name

Senior Research Scientist I

Vacancy No

VN880

Employment Type

Full Time

Location of role

Oxford UK

Department

Protein Engineering

Key Responsibilities

The primary purpose of this role is to design and conduct cell-based assays or experimental investigations to support the identification and early preclinical development of T cell engager molecules leading up to candidate drug identification within the Company’s preclinical pipeline and support IND/CTA-enabling nonclinical studies. In addition to performing routine screening assays, the role involves contribution to developing or proposing novel assays, processes, and technological improvements that benefit drug discovery.

We are seeking a highly motivated senior scientist who will have key responsibilities for developing and implementing biological assays for the discovery of transformative biologics medicines

• Independently design and perform cell biology experiments to support the functional assessment of ImmTAX molecule screening through to candidate nomination and preclinical packages in accordance with set timelines. Observe, interpret and respond to the results
• Proactively contribute to internal cross-functional project / programme team meetings. Generate and communicate knowledge and data packages to solve complex problems and help inform go / no-go decisions
• Understand and align with strategy within the therapeutic area and Research
• Collaborate with colleagues to build a deep knowledge around targets and technologies of strategic interest to Immunocore
• Introduce new techniques/approaches to answer project-specific research questions and/or improve processes, in collaboration with colleagues and line manager, where appropriate
• Maintain and increase technical knowledge in relevant fields through self-study, observation, attending relevant training courses
• Contribute to peer reviewed publications and patents
• Contribute to internal and external conferences
• Maintain accurate records of all work and data generated by completing experiment write ups & electronic laboratory notebooks on time, following Company procedures
• Operate in accordance with the Company’s Codes of Practices and Environment, Health and Safety (EHS) policies
• Ensure that laboratory equipment is operated in accordance with relevant protocols and/or SOPs and safety & risk guidelines; acting promptly to report any faults or problems to the relevant member of staff
• Contribute to the operational running and maintenance of Cell Biology laboratories and equipment.

Supervisory Responsibility (If Applicable)

• May supervise work of more junior staff or interns.

Essential Qualifications

Education, Experience and Knowledge:

• PhD in a scientific discipline and a minimum of 2-5 years related experience; may include post-doctoral experience; or MSc degree or BSc degree with role-specific equivalent research or industrial experience.
• Strong working knowledge and understanding of immunology and cell biology
• Highly experienced in a broad range of immunoassay techniques, including isolation of primary human immune cells and proficiency in functional assays and endpoints (measuring proliferation and cytokines, flow cytometry, ELISA etc.)
• Prior experience of testing potential therapeutic molecules in relevant systems
• Excellent written & oral communication skills

Preferred Experience

• Practical experience with one or more of the following: T cell activation & cytokine release assays, Incucyte, xCELLigence and MSD platforms,
• Standard molecular biology techniques including CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing of cell lines and/or primary human immune cells. Evidence of using genetic modified in vitro models to answer biological hypotheses.
• Experience with culturing human primary cells from patient samples
• Experience coding using R, and/or Python
• Lab automation experience
• Experience in use of biologics databases

Other

• Good working knowledge of Microsoft applications such as Excel, Access, Word, and Outlook
• Maintenance of accurate records
• Openness and honesty: Readily offering information pertaining to work in hand whether positive or negative
• Taking responsibility: Being prepared to accept full responsibility for tasks entrusted to them; seeing tasks through to completion and dealing with the consequences of failure or success
• Flexibility and willingness to learn new techniques and practices; change of plans, objectives and/or priorities. Handling disjointed tasks effectively
• Team spirit: Being able to work productively with others to achieve tasks. Showing consideration for the needs and feelings of others

About The Company

Immunocore (NASDAQ: IMCR) is a pioneering, commercial-stage T cell receptor biotechnology company whose purpose is to develop and commercialize a new generation of transformative medicines which address unmet patient needs in oncology, infectious diseases and autoimmune disease. Our leaders in R&D are internationally recognised as some of the biotech industry’s most successful drug developers. We are creating not just an environment where great minds can interact but an innovation powerhouse answering the big questions.

Focused on delivering first-in-class biological therapies to patients, we have developed a highly innovative soluble TCR platform. Our ImmTAX molecules underpin a new generation of precision engineered drugs that harness the immune system to treat a broad spectrum of diseases with high unmet medical need, including oncology, infectious diseases and autoimmune diseases.

At Immunocore, we recognize that our employees are our greatest asset. We value the unique contributions each person brings to our team. By embracing Science, Trust, Respect, Integrity, Diversity, and Entrepreneurship (STRIDE), we create an environment where collaboration thrives, ideas flourish, and transformative changes happen. STRIDE represents more than just letters; it embodies our shared identity and drives our mission. We are dedicated to developing breakthrough therapies that transform patients’ lives, advancing medicine, and supporting one another in these pursuits.

Immunocore is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. As such, we are committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by law.